Most people want their vehicle to reflect their personality, their likes, and interests, or their ambitions in life. There are numerous ways this can be achieved, one of which is to change your car’s factory installed gear shift knob. While the factory installed knob is practical it is unlikely to reflect your individuality or get people talking. However, there are so many types of shift knobs available, it can be difficult to know which to choose. Our panel of car experts has compiled a list of the best shift knobs available to help you make the right decision for you and your vehicle.

The Best Shift Knob

1

Mishimoto MMSK-BK Weighted Shift Knob

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The Mishimoto MMSK-BK Weighted Shift Knob has a universal design that allows it to fit any make or model of car. The knob has an aluminum exterior that provides a smooth grip and the knob is available in black or silver. Both colors carry the Mishimoto signature M on the top face. The shift knob’s weighted design allows for smoother and faster shifting.

Key Features:

Weight 0.8lbs

Overall height 3.42” and diameter 1.23”

Smooth aluminum exterior

Universal fit

Available in black or silver

Specification:

BrandMishimoto

ModelMMSK-BK

Weight3.2 oz

Pros

Weighted design supports a smoother and quicker shifting

Plastic internal adaptors allow for universal fit in any car

Easy to attach

Cons

Slim smooth design can be difficult to grip

Metal can get hot as the temperature rises

No gear position detailing

2

Skunk2 627-99-0081 Six-Speed Shift Knob

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The 627-99-0081 Six-Speed Shift Knob by Skunk2 Racing is a weighted knob that offers more positive and smoother shifting. It is specifically designed for Honda vehicles and can be used with your existing shift stick or combined with the Skunk2 Short Shifter.

Key Features:

Weight 1lb

Dimensions 6.2” x 6.4” x 3.6”

Stick fit 10mm x 1.5mm

Stainless steel with scratch resistant titanium coating

Designed for Honda models including Acord, Civic, and Prelude

Specification:

BrandSkunk2 Racing

Model627-99-0081

Weight1 lb

Pros

Weighted design supports smoother and quicker shifting

Scratch-resistant titanium finish means it retains its look for longer

Includes gear positioning detailing

Cons

Only fits specific Honda models

3

Kei Project Katana Samurai Sword Shift Knob

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If you are looking for something completely different for your vehicle, then consider the Kei Project Katana Samurai Sword Shift Knob. It is created from durable steel and finished with a polyester fabric weave and nickel-plated brass accents. The shift knob includes locknuts and adapters, meaning that it can fit a host of different sized gear sticks.

Key Features:

Weight 510 grams

Height 6 inches

Made from solid steel

Polyester and nickel-plated brass finish

Specification:

BrandKei Project

ModelKSS-NR

Weight1.4 lbs

Pros

Created from durable steel

Unique design available in 9 color combinations

Includes lock nuts and adapters

Suitable for thread sizes 8×1.25, 10×1.25/1.50, and 12×1.25

Cons

The thin shape could make the knob uncomfortable to hold

No gear positioning included in the detailing

4

Mishimoto MMSK-FSB Chris Forsberg Shift Knob

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The Mishimoto MMSK-FSB Limited Edition Chris Forsberg Shift Knob is a collaborative design between Mishimoto and Chris Forsberg. The shift knob comes complete with four different sized aluminum inserts, allowing it to provide a universal fit for any vehicle. The knob is made from CNC-machined and anodized aluminum and is finished with a laser etched Chris Forsberg logo.

Key Features:

Weight 4.9oz

Height 66mm and diameter 48.8mm

Universal fit

Made from CNC-machined aluminum

Specification:

BrandMishimoto

ModelMMSK-FSB

Weight5.6 oz

Pros

Comfortable rounded shape for ease of use

Includes inserts for universal fit

Limited edition

Cons

Metal can get hot in warmer weather

No gear position detailing

5

Pilot Automotive PM-2236AM Motorsport Shift Knob

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The Pilot Automotive PM-2236AM Motorsport Manual/Automatic Shift Knob is designed using a metal and real wood construction. It includes a working trigger mechanism that provides a firm grip while changing gear. Adaptors mean that the gear knob can be used to replace most standard factory installed gear knobs.

Key Features:

Weight 13.6 oz

Dimensions 6.7” x 4.8” x 1.7”

Designed for manual and automatic gear shifts

Pistol butt design

Wood and metal construction

Shift lock release function for automatic applications

Specification:

BrandPilot Automotive

ModelPM-2236AM

Weight13.6 oz

Pros

Unique design adds individual flair to your vehicle

Includes inserts to fit most gear shifts

Works with automatic and manual transmissions

Cons

Cannot be used with automatic transmissions that have a button on the top of the shift knob

No gear positioning included in the detailing

6

DEWHEL Universal JDM Honda Acura Shift Knob

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The DEWHEL Universal JDM Honda Acura 5 Speed Manual Shift Knob is designed for comfort and is made from high-quality aluminum. It is finished with gear positioning detailing on the top face of the knob. The shift knob comes complete with adaptor nuts so that it fits most Honda and Acura models.

Key Features:

Weight 0.8oz

Includes adaptor nuts

Suitable for manual gear shifts

Made from aluminum

Gear positioning detailing included

Specification:

BrandDEWHEL

ModelGSK-5001BK

Weight0.8 oz

Pros

Provides a comfortable and secure grip for gear shifting

Fits most Honda and Acura models

Gear shift positions included in detailing

Cons

The metal may get hot in warmer weather

Only suitable for manual gear transmissions

Only suitable for 5-speed gear transmissions

7

Browning SPG Outdoors Pistol Grip Gear Shift Knob

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The ergonomically designed Browning SPG Outdoors Pistol Grip Gear Shift Knob is made from solid metal for durability and comfort. The grip accents mold to the shape of your hand while the three adaptors that are included with the knob, make it easy to fit most gear shifts. The shift knob is finished with the buckmark logo engraved on the top face to give it a completely unique look.

Key Features:

Weight 12.6oz

Dimensions 7.5” x 2.2” x 3”

Ergonomic design

Solid metal construction

Universal fit

Specification:

BrandBrowning

ModelBGS1001

Weight12.6 oz

Pros

Durable solid metal construction

Ergonomic design with molded grip accents for comfort and control

Includes adaptor that allows it to fit on most gear shifts

Cons

Metal will get hot in warmer climates

Gear shifting positions not included in detailing

8

Mishimoto MMSK-CF Carbon Fiber Shift Knob

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If you are looking for a comfortable alternative to your factory install shift knob, then the Mishimoto MMSK-CF Carbon Fiber Shift knob might be just what you are looking for. It comes complete with plastic inserts that allow for universal fitment, regardless of the make and model of the car. The knob is finished with the signature M engraved in the top face.

Key Features:

Weight 1.44oz

Height 2.3” and diameter 1.63”

Carbon fiber construction

Includes plastic adaptors

Specification:

BrandMishimoto

ModelMMSK-CF

Weight1.44 oz

Pros

Plastic adaptors allow the knob to fit easily on most gear shifts

Sleek carbon fiber design adds quality to any interior

Cons

Gear shift positions not included in the detailing

9

Mavota Black Skull Manual Automatic Gear Shift Knob

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If you are looking for a gear knob with a cool design, then the Mavota Black Skull Manual Automatic Gear Shift Knob might be just what you are looking for. The knob comes complete with threading adaptors to help it fit to most gear shifts. It can be used on 4, 5, or 6-speed transmissions and is suitable for use with automatic transmissions. The knob is coated in a high-quality material that makes it strong and durable, even with continuous use.

Key Features:

Weight 8.8oz

Strong and durable

Skull design

Works for manual and automatic vehicles

Specification:

BrandMavota

ModelKNSK1801

Weight8.8 oz

Pros

Unique and interesting design

Coated in a special material to increase strength and durability

Suitable for 4, 5, and 6-speed transmissions, as well as automatic transmissions

Threaded adaptors mean the knob fits most gear shifts

Cons

The shape may make it uncomfortable to hold

10

XYZCTEM Universal LED Light Illuminated Shift Knob

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If you are looking for something to really make your car stand out, then the XYZCTEM Universal 110mm Touch Activated Ultra Blue LED Light Illuminated Shift Knob might be just what you are looking for. It is designed to work with buttonless gear shifts and fits most gear shift sizes. The knob has a black leather and chrome finish with LED lights built in around the edge where your hand is most likely to sit when shifting gears.

The lights are sensor operated, so they come on when the gear shift knob is in use. A long-lasting rechargeable battery sits inside the knob. The USB port in the side of the knob can be used for numerous purposes including smartphone charging.

Key Features:

Weight 8oz

Dimensions 4.4” x 1.9” x 2.2”

Leather and chrome finish

Built-in blue LED lights

Suitable for most gear shifters

Specification:

BrandXYZCTEM

ModelXYZCTEM-106

Weight8 oz

Pros

Unique design that will make your car stand out

Additional features including a built-in USB port

Fits most buttonless gear shifters

Cons

Lights could be distracting when driving

No gear positioning included in the detailing

Best Shift Knob Buying Guide & FAQ

The gear shift knob is an important part of your vehicle. It needs to be functional and comfortable, but it can also add a touch of individuality if you choose wisely. However, choosing the right shift knob means understanding what to consider when buying a shift knob and understanding the benefits of a heavy shift knob. In this section of the buying guide, we look at both these aspects and answer some of the most frequently asked questions about shift knobs.

What to Consider When Buying a Shift Knob

Functionality remains the key consideration when looking for a replacement for your factory installed shift knob. If the knob does not work effectively, then your transmission and ability to shift gears will also be negatively affected. Other important considerations include:

Manual or automatic – Not all shift knobs are suitable for automatic transmissions. Of those that are most require you to have a buttonless system in place. If you have a shift knob on an automatic that has a button on the head, then you need to find a shift knob that specifically fits this type of shifter.

Fit - Many replacement shift knobs are universal, meaning they included adapters that enable them to fit on any size gear shift. These adapters sit between the shifter and the knob allowing the appropriate connection to be made. Others, however, are designed for specific car makes and models. Always check this in the shift knob details before purchasing.

Comfort – It is important that the shift knob you choose is comfortable for you to use. If it is not, then it may affect how you drive and even make your gear shifts erratic.

Materials – While you want your shift knob to look good, you also want it to last. Look for durable materials and coverings such as steel or carbon fiber. However, be aware that on warmer days metal can heat up quite quickly and intensely. Similarly, a plastic shift knob could cause excessive sweating in the heat, which could cause your hand to slip more easily.

Benefits of a Heavy Shift Knob

A heavy shift knob is one that is made from denser materials than average weight knobs. This allows it to weight more without changing the overall dimensions of the knob. The main benefit of using a heavy shift knob is improved performance. Many drivers believe that because a heavy shift knob carries more kinetic energy and greater momentum than a lighter shift knob, it moves through the gears with less effort from the driver. In turn, this is believed to create smoother shifting, which in turn puts less pressure on the transmission and on the engine.

Best Shift Knob FAQ:

Q: What Is A Weighted Shift Knob?

A: A weighted shift knob is one that is made from denser material than a standard shift knob. This allows it to be heavier without increasing its dimensions. The purpose of such a shift knob is to improve the smoothness and speed of gear shifts while driving.

Q: How do I replace a gear shift knob in my car?

A: Generally, this is a very simple process, however, if you are unsure about any stage or have difficulties removing the existing knob, then check with your manufacturer’s handbook or an experienced mechanic.

To replace a gear shift knob, you need to first purchase a replacement shift knob that fits the vehicle you own. If you are unsure check the vehicle specifications and look for the dimensions of the gear shift lever. Compare these to the dimensions of the shift knob that you are considering. Once you have the right shift knob replacement, simply follow these steps.

Locate the existing gear shift knob and determine how it is attached to the gearshift. Generally, it is either screwed onto a machined thread in the lever or it is attached with a small screw close to the base of the shift knob.

Unscrew the shift knob or remove the small screw at the base. If you are unscrewing the shift knob, then remember to turn it counter clockwise.

Install the new shift knob onto the gearshift by either threading it onto the screw or sliding it into place and then tightening the screw at the base. If you have a shift knob that requires an adjuster to make it fit your gearshift, then consult the instructions that came with the new shift knob to ensure that this is placed correctly before you place the new shift knob.

If the new shift knob as gear positioning detailing included, then ensure this is properly aligned with your gear positions.

Test the fit and positioning carefully before taking your vehicle out onto a public road. This ensures you can fix any issues without putting your self or others at risk of harm.

Our Top Pick

Our top pick is the Mishimoto MMSK-BK Weighted Shift Knob. It has a universal design that allows it to fit any make or model of car. The knob has an aluminum exterior that provides a smooth grip and the knob is available in black or silver. Both colors carry the Mishimoto signature M on the top face. The shift knob’s weighted design allows for smoother and faster shifting.